Monday, 13 May 2013

"In fact, the argument could be made that this is the first time-in the history of business- when consumers are fundamentally ahead of brands that serve them. Consumers are more connected, more informed, creating and sharing more."

"The challenge is that most businesses don't know how to adapt, and most people who are working for these companies don't know how to change their old ways."

Taken from the first few paragraphs in the Prelude fo Ctrl Alt Delete by Mitch Joel due out May 21.

I was quite fortunate to get a galley copy of this book back in March. Shortly after reading the book, while attending SMMW13, (Social Media Markeitng World), I listened as Mitch gave a presentation based on the tenets of his book. Fascinating and thought provoking to say the least.

We're all familiar with Ctrl Alt Delete, essentially a reset. Mitch applies this analogy as he assesses the current state of business today. He applies it first to the organization and then to YOU and the way you approach business.........most importantly the why.

Thursday, 14 February 2013

"Industries where everything is seen as a commodity- are that way because the industry wants them to be that way. People in an industry either work to be just like everyone else but cheaper, or they work to be different from everyone else. And the second one is a lot more rare." - Seth Godin

So began the Promo Kitchen podcast with guest Seth Godin( PK #33). This is a fascinating conversation in that our hosts, Mark Graham and Bobby Lehew asked very pointed, industry specific, questions. Clearly the promotional profession is undergoing change. The current model (supplier / distributor /end user) is certainly suspect as a result of the internet. However, in this compelling remark Seth mitigates the concern. "If we're talking about long-term customers, the challenge you've got is simple, which is,can you keep the people you have and engage them so that they bring in their colleagues? If that happens, then the Internet is your friend."

There's no denying that buyer behavior is changing. Some would claim that the "decision journey" is being heavily influenced by price. A reasonable assumption perhaps. Recommendations from peers, "tribes" and "influencers" are shaping more and more buying decisions NOT price. Who knew? ..Word of mouth marketing endures.

Toward the end of the podcast a listener asks about diferentiating oneself. SG responds: "the whole key of differentiation is, you need to be able to sell this sentence and say this sentence and have this sentence be true.We will sell you something no one else can sell you. And if you can't say that don't be surprised if people are going to send you an RFP."

This was a remarkable conversation. These were just a few personal take aways. I highly recommend this particular podcast. I would also encourage you to subscribe / contribute to PROMO KITCHEN. The future is all about unconditional collaboration!

Monday, 11 February 2013

..........encouragement are easy to come by. If only we look around and, to some degree, surrender.

Brene Brown has spent many years researching the dynamics involved in our need to connect. Understanding shame, vulnerability, courage and authenticity are key in coming to a more meaningful existence.

Suzanne, wife, mother and the love of my life, chronicles life's twists and turns as the parent of special needs kids. From experience we know growing up has it's challenges. From experience, these kidz are an inspiration.

Cab Driver , until last week, was the last post made here. That was in May 2012. Last Friday, just before leaving the office, an email indicated that this post had received a new comment. The comment read:

SethG said...

A great story about the human spirit and hard work= success. Basic but true..keep telling your story.

Monday, 21 May 2012

Recently, while on a business trip to Texas, the bellman hailed my cab for the ride to the airport. Like many I was excited to be going home. Settling into the back seat I replied to the drivers query with a simple, "airport please".

His accent was obviously foreign and being curious I asked......What country are you from? There was a long pause as he collected his thoughts. Profound, simple and to the point was his response. "I'm an American." Pause. "America is the land of opportunity....you can be whatever you choose to be in America."

He continues...."I'm from Eygpt."

"So how did you arrive in America?" "I bought a one way ticket to New York in 1973. I didn't know anyone. I didn't know what I was going to do. After a very short time I called a friend in Texas and spent my very last money for a ticket to Texas. I began washing dishes and worked for more than 3 years without a day off". From his tone it was clear he enjoyed that day off!

He continued, "Those born here take things for granted."

This gentlman went on to a successful career in the printing trade and was now retired and filling his days driving a cab.

It was a brief encounter but quite profound. The rest of our ride was in silence as I looked out the window enjoying America the beautiful.....aka Texas!

Monday, 19 March 2012

........... Unconditional is defined as absolute, free from any restrictions. Collaboration, the idea of working with others as in "this study is the collaborative effort of Professors so and so, et al. All too often, in business, these ideas are mutually exclusive. There always seems to be an ulterior motive, perhaps mistrust, lurking about.

Engagement, a one way sort of thing, is giving way to collaboration. Collaboration, by it's very definition, requires teamwork. Unconditional Collaboration means not only do you drink the Kool Aid but you help formulate it too.

Monday, 07 February 2011

Last week while attending a strategy session a member of the group brought up the importance of measuring ROI. Not too long ago an esteemed colleague mentioned that it was futile to measure ROI as it relates to Social Media. Quite true if you don't have a well thought out strategy, aka Marketing Plan.

Wednesday, 26 January 2011

It's the same thing every year. Americans tune in and look for signs of life, hope and more. Only to be woefully disappointed. Albeit Congress did try something new........date night! The audience dynamics were interesting as well. Standing O when it "felt good". When the President acknowledged the members of our Armed Forces. NO Standing O when something of substance, like government reform, was mentioned.

Tuesday, 25 January 2011

.........is a presentation that was recently presented at the PPAI EXPO in Las Vegas. Directed toward the Promotional Professional the intent is to present a basic understanding of the "three dimensional art form", embroidery. Takeaways will enable you to converse in a more meaningful and effective way with your client base and your decorator.

The presentation is available below. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions.

Monday, 24 January 2011

........sometimes distracts us. All business owners, from start ups to seasoned veterans, give thought to the competition. One must be aware of the competition but that's where your concerns should end.

The following is from ventur capitalist Fred Wilson (avc.com), "One mistake I see startups make a lot is getting too focused on what is going on around them. They spend too much time trying to figure out what their competitors are going to do. They watch the next hot startup with jealousy and it reminds them of when they were that 'shiny new thing' and they want that back. The reality of startups is that there is so much opportunity out there that if you just focus on what is in front of you, your company will do fine."

Monday, 17 January 2011

...... on page 141 of the book REWORK (co-authored by Jason Fried, et al) one is invited to take on the competition. Of all the great observations contained in this book this one point is profound.

"If you think a competitor sucks, say so. When you do that you'll find that others who agree with you will rally to your side. Being the anti _______ is a great way to differentiate yourself and attract followers."

Several great examples are cited concluding with the following.

"Having an enemy gives you a great story to tell customers, too. Taking a stand always stands out. People get stoked by conflict. They take sides. Passions are ignited. And that's a good way to get people to take notice."

Given the events of last week don't you think the time has come in the Promotional Products Profession?

Monday, 29 November 2010

As a small business owner/ entrepenuer you should be very familiar with this idea. Find a comfort zone, a.k.a. NICHE, and exploit it. Dare I say, service, move on and repeat. Nothng new here.

Enter social media. Now, one is suppose to build / lead a community, a tribe or is it a NICHE?

Nothing new here either. In fact the following is quite revealing. "As usual, maketers are turning hype into hyperventilation. This time, it's about the supposed end of marketing as we know it, thanks to the rise of social media and the shift of power to consumers." Continuing, "Social media makes it more urgent than ever that companies get the basics right, developing and reliably delivering on a compelling brand promise." This quote is part of the opening paragraph to a story in the December 2010 (highly recommended reading) issue of the Harvard Buisness Review. (The One Thing You Must Get Right When Building a Brand by Patrick Barwise and Sean Meehan, pg 80).

Sunday, 21 November 2010

Blogging, Podcasting and simply telling your story is THE single most powerful thing you can do to promote your business. Rather interesting that most people will participate @ Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin and consider that sufficient. Most business folks, salesman for sure, would agree it's about the relationship, no? Well then, if it's left to Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin, isn't your perception of "relationship" somewhat shallow?

Monday, 18 October 2010

....not social! There are numerous networking opportunities allowing for real time face to face interaction. Then, of course, there are the opportunities presented by facebook, MySpace and 3D platforms such as Second Life. These "platforms" are merely the "tools" to support a strategy. The face of Marketing is changing such that those who are more software savvy, gamers and the like, will be far more relevant. Indeed a necessity.

Saturday, 16 October 2010

....replacing your car for a newer model, your clothes for that "fresh" look. Why then, is it so hard to embrace and engage?
Embrace, or gladly accept, the new "tools" provided by social media. Stay relevant by engaging those in your "playground".
stay on the offensive and make a difference.

Tuesday, 14 September 2010

When do you know? Things have been challenging for too long. You've withstood the worst of it, no?

So, are we having fun yet? The old saying goes something like...."if it's work it's a job." So if you're having fun you're either a boss an owner or a politician! Now wait a minute. A boss would retire let's say after 20years. An owner cashes in just as soon as they can. A politician? Well wait a minute. Any member of Congress (state level to0) can leave sooner than later and with a guilded parachute. So why would anyone feed at the public trough for so long?

Maybe they really are America's best and brightest! History shows us otherwise.

Monday, 23 August 2010

....the wise words of a friend of mine. As a business owner there are many times you question just about everything you do. Past, present and future. There's no going back however one relies on that moving forward. Life, in and out of business, is about learning. Don't ever forget that! Failing isn't fatal and winning doesn't last.
THE trend in business, and life, today revolves around what a colleague calls out, "let's get Social"! Of course we've always been Social. Folks may worry about their technology IQ while statistics don't necessarily agree. We,collectively, assume that the younger generation is more in-tune with technology. However they have to grow into the experience that BOOMERS have.
That being said the new mantra, if you will, is found in Brian Solis's new book ENGAGE......Engage or die.
It WILL resonate with everyone......

Sunday, 22 August 2010

...to be in business. Or as I like to say "never a dull moment!"
I downloaded Brian Solis's new book ENGAGE yesterday. The Foreword, written by Ashton Kutcher, was clearly the shortest missive I've ever seen. Yet, oh so powerful.
What resonated is this..."This is our time. This is your time.
Engage."
Are you Engaged if so how?
engage or die.

Saturday, 07 August 2010

An understatement for sure and we know that relationships come in many flavors.

The other day, at a presentation, a speaker mentioned that his " company doesn't like to strong-arm vendors". A few sentences later he concluded his remarks with "they agree and sign or they don't get paid".

Tuesday, 20 July 2010

In the "social" world ROI is not so easily quantified. Must the measure always be in financial terms or can strategic/tactical importance suffice? Some would speculate that ROI in social media is measured by the trust you've earned within your community (tribe). Whether on-line or off-line how is this any different from business as usual?

Monday, 19 July 2010

"You have to think consciously about how you use social networks, and you have to build relationships that are decoupled from goals."

Strategy, whether On-line (social) or Off-line (print, TV, mail) is still a necessity. Nothing in the marketing mix has changed. Technology has given us the ability to go "wide and deep" rather efficiently.

...it's been awhile since I've blogged. In looking for meaningful content aka inspiration. I came across a list of ideas. Number 1 is Think small. Always a fan of brevity it was amazong to read Seth Godins post yesterday. Look for The only possible response... @ www.sethgodin.typepad.com .

Sunday, 04 July 2010

What better way to spend the 4th than at a baseball game. It's so American. Hot dogs, ice cream, apple pie and Chevrolet! So it was that my oldest daughter, 9 year old Olivia, and I attended the Arizona Diamondbacks game. In keeping with the spirit of the day it was also Military Appreciation day. The Diamondbacks saluted folks from various conflicts with the most rousing applause going to those currently in harms way. However I must say that when they asked all veterans and current active duty military personnel to stand it was truly humbling. At first reluctant to stand I was persuaded by a rather excited Ollie. It is in moments like these that I'm reminded of the impact made by my service to this country.

Many before me and many after will heed, for various reasons, the call to arms. Some will give the ultimate while the rest of us return home. Their spirit always remembered, their heroism never forgotten.

Tuesday, 22 June 2010

No, it's not just a t-shirt........it is a hand crafted one of a kind, latest in technology, t-shirt. Incorporating a laser applique AND embroidered Microsoft TAG! Never before embroidered, by me anyway, on apparel.

First of all let's THANK SANMAR for their generous donation....the shirts! EVERYONE at SANMAR was so enthusiastic and helpful.

So back to the shirt.........the PPAI produced Leadership Development Workshop ( LDW) was first held in 2000 at Big Sky, Montana.

Here we are in 2010. Throughout the years the success has been the result of Staff's efforts but more importantly YOUR enthusiasm to make Regional Associations stronger! First time attendees, old salts and the middle of the road group. YOUare what makes LDW so successful. THANKS for coming.

The links below show the evolution of your shirt. The decoration is cutting edge. The TAG is VERY cutting edge. Should you have any questions after viewing the links below please seek me out.

Finally, to the new attendee, I can guarantee this will be THE best education event you have ever attended. REGIONAL RELATIONS @ PPAI is over the top in every respect. THANK YOU.

ENJOY and I look forward to meeting each of you. Don't be BASHFUL!

Click here to read what PPB wrote about tag technology in the promotional market, and watch the video demonstrating how the laser applique decoration and embroidered tag were created..

Saturday, 05 June 2010

Back in April I was catching up on my on-line feeds when I came across a posting by Charlene Li. Charlene, a coauthor of the bestselling book Groundswell, was offering an "advance reading copy" of her new book Open Leadership. One was directed to another site to view the criteria to be met in order to receive the book. Well, at first glance, I didn't really meet the criteria. So in the comments section of the request I simply stated my case. Confessing to being an old dog who could learn new tricks not to mention having a keen interest in leadership.

Lo and behold, several days later, the book arrived. THANK YOU Charlene.

Surprisingly, this week, a copy of the finished product arrived as well. Once again demonstrating the power of asking!

I highly recommend Charlene Li's book. Open Leadership: How social technology can transform the way you lead.

Friday, 30 April 2010

Come on it's hard to admit but we're all guilty of this from time to time. It's certainly part of human nature. Over time the more successful you become the more likely you are to exhibit this trait. Afterall success can be intoxicating.

Sunday, 07 March 2010

In getting ready to host a twenty year celebratory open house for my business it seems as though things have come full circle.

The ultimate "final exam" came about in 1989 as I left the safety of NJ and moved to North Carolina and started Embroidery Unlimited. Funny how motivated one becomes when faced with monthly expenses in the form of machine payments, rent and payroll. Not to mention the specter of failure. Of course, all of this is rationalized, as is every business decision, by the fact that the end game would be to send out the resume and become an employee, again!

Fast forward...the current business climate requires things be done differently. More than ever we are required to work smarter. Out with the familiar, away with complacency, time to embrace change.

From clients to business owners to the more established companies, if you "get it", you'll see and hear many folks are doing things differently. Banks are becoming more accommodating. Marketing efforts are becoming more efficient and effective with the increasing use of digital media. Once again, across the organization, LEAN is a familiar buzz word.

There's nothing new in this line of thinking. Anyone whose ever been part of a start up has this experience. It's about treating all resources as if their scarce.

It's a new day and it ain't easy.........challenges abound. So too opportunity.

Sunday, 14 February 2010

This afternoon I went through the "box" that holds the mementos of my life. Yes,there are all the report cards from K-12, transcripts documenting my participation in the Southeast Asian War Games, and a solid 3.2 GPA regardless of the school I attended or the degree achieved. There were the many NYC Marathon certificates, Triathlon photos, books about racing and the Operators Manual for the Beechcraft A-36 Bonanza, my favorite airplane that I love to fly!

If you were to look at my accomplishments versus the general population you'd find me in the minority, fewer than 3%. My most recent achievement, Certified Advertising Specialist, a professional designation, puts me in an elite class. That's right, again fewer than 3%.

However, the best was uncovering the note from the editors of the Harvard Business Review (June 1986), acknowledging my submission of a letter commenting on an article in a previous edition. They had published an article maligning the Vietnam Veterans. I replied, and it was eventually published. Me, published in the Harvard Business Review. I didn't realize the significance of this until I attended a week long Executive program at Michigan State University. Upon completion of the program , we had a celebratory dinner at the University Club. I had the good fortune to be seated at a table with a group of the faculty. The program was truly great, the faculty top notch and the participants rising stars in their respective organizations.The conversations during dinner were the usual small talk. Somehow, leave it to academia, publishing came up. I was out gunned, I thought to myself. I had written an article in my college newspaper (setting things straight about Vietnam Veterans). This conversation, however, required more. Then I uttered, "well I was published in the HBR". Everyone at the table paused, you could hear a pin drop. Pause for effect, I continued, " it was only a letter to the editor". That didn't matter, these guys validated and celebrated the importance of that effort.

Since then I've gone on to write many articles for several trade rags, Blog, Speak and do the occasional letter to the editor. Full circle.

Wednesday, 10 February 2010

....that change made with an approach resembling evolutionis a feeble attempt at change? The underlying thought is that evolving change, implied as spread out over time, will rarely achieve the desired outcome.

Where as a revolutionary approach stands a better chance of achieving the desired outcome. The thought here is that the change is so "radical" as to be enthusiastically embraced and implemented by the masses that opposition is simply bowled over.

Monday, 08 February 2010

At one point a website was considered a necessity. Intuitively, as one embraces the ever evolving strategy of Social Media / Digital Marketing you come to question the need for a web presence using a website.

For example, in the promotional products profession, suppliers produce catalogs (print media), have websites (duplicating the catalog), maybe a Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIN presence and perhaps Blog. Distributors, at the very least have websites that more often than not are templates where any semblance of creativity is lost in the headlines exclaiming the availability of 10,000 promotional items!

Consider the time and resources required to keep all of this content fresh AND relevant? What is your marketing strategy and how relevant are the tools your using?

Sunday, 07 February 2010

...page 138 in the revised edition of WORD OF MOUTH MARKETING by Andy Sernovitz.

"Never under estimate the power of swag-free hats, shirts, bag, toys or anything with company logos on it." There are several paragraphs speaking to this point. "Every item with your logo becomes a word of mouth generator when it's worn by a real person." His point concludes with "Give away lots of free stuff."

Tuesday, 02 February 2010

.com. My wife, Suzanne, blogs @ www.specialneedsmom.com. Blogging is her way of sharing in the lives of others whose children are afflicted with a variety of health issues. As new parents, like so many before us, we had no idea of what it would be like to deal with a special needs child let alone two. My daughters Olivia and Zoe have a rare genetic disorder, mitochondrial disease, that is degenerative. So little is known about this disease that we've come to have no expectations and live in the moment. The best way to understand the challenge is in this analogy. As adults you and I awake each morning as fully charged D cell batteries. Ollie and Zoe awake as half charged, if their lucky, AAA batteries. If I dwell on the what if's, think too long about the future or wonder why, I'd be missing too much of the here and now. An better appreciation for that old cliche "Life is too short".

Don't get me wrong, I've had my moments. It's only human nature to wonder why. To worry, to feel.....

Whew! And just like that it's time to go home and play with the girls!

Thursday, 28 January 2010

It happens to me every year when the State of the Union speech is scheduled. I get conflicted. Like most Americans I want to hear what is being said. On the other hand I come away woefully disappointed and disillusioned. Typically the content of the speech is somewhat delusional and not founded in fact. Skewed to say the very least. Then the cameras scans the audience. There in lies the real problem. It would appear that most members of Congress have held their respective positions far too long. Could you imagine running a company with the same management team for 20 or 30 years? Just how cutting edge and relevant would that company be? Behind the President we see Biden and Pelosi often times distracted and seemingly not paying attention. As the camera scans the crowd I wonder; "Don't we, as Americans, owe ourselves more than this?" Are these folks the best and the brightest for these times?

Somehow, as a country, we manage to survive. Isn't it about time we excel?

Tuesday, 26 January 2010

Overall the book is well thought out and reveling on many levels. We're presented a rationale for the predicament we find ourselves in and repeatedly challenged with a call to action. Yes, the system is broken. Working within the system, or working to change the system, is not for the faint hearted. Collectively and individually we are called upon, using our innate abilities, to make a difference, become indispensable.

The book starts off slowly however, once again, Seth delivers in his very simplistic approach. The diagrams, a nice touch, were over the top in simplicity and explanation.

Embroidery has been an integral part of the rich history of decorated apparel and textiles. Those of you practicing in the promotional profession, who accept the premise of the art form, should cash in when selling decorated apparel. That is if you're selling. Far too many, in the profession, are order takers not rain makers.

Friday, 15 January 2010

..... a well worn cliche. I've spent this week at the PPAI Expo in Las Vegas. This is THE show for the Promotional Professional. I participated as a presenter, walked the show floor and attended Board meetings. There is, as usual, a sense of optimism in the air however guard. This crowd of Sales Professionals embodies the American spirit.

A host of speakers did a great job to motivate, inspire and deliver stark realities. Simon Bailey, a clever young man and author, encouraged us to unlock our personal brilliance. Scott McKain spoke about the Collapse of Distinction. "Fascination is the single most powerful way to influence behavior" and Sally Hogshead di a wonderful job sharing her thoughts. The legendary James Carville demonstrated that he could present a balanced series of observations regarding our government. He pointed out, regardless of the campaign rhetoric, That change has never taken place inside the beltway. He further concluded that a third party may gain traction as public discontent continues to rise. I have a renewed respect for Mr. Carville. Semper Fi.

It was good doing the Associations business, seeing old friends while making new ones. Participating in professional development as a presenter and a student is always uplifting. So I leave EXPO with a sense of renewal. Until next year...........

Thursday, 14 January 2010

......is a phrase that was used by several folks in the audience of a seminar I gave yesterday at the PPAI Expo. The presentation explored the dynamics of pricing. Earlier in the day, James Carville in his keynote, said it best when he noted "a few years ago it was about the economy, stupid. Today it's more like "what economy."

That being said, isn't it time to put the economy out of you're mind? I dare say we would be better off by focusing on the task at hand. For me, as an example, it's time to do a better job of marketing my company. Casting the net a bit farther and wider in the search for new clients. At the same time I'll cast a critical eye on the processes employed by my company. It's about exchanging complacency for relevance.

Don't become immobilized by the fear of "this economy". Become inspired!

Wednesday, 06 January 2010

I keep going back to the military as an example. How, why is it that small units always, for the most part, achieve success? Sure there's the chain of command, rules, regulations & orders etc. BUT that doesn't do it. Small unittactics, isn't enough however, when the stuff hits the fan and chaos reins it's about leadership, teamwork and a dash of luck. The underlying tenants of discipline set the frame work for the unit to respond to all they encounter.

So it is in business. The organization is trained, disciplined and highly motivated. But is it positioned to respond efficiently and effectively. Can they respond? Are they given the tools and the responsibility to go "outside" the existing scenarios to achieve?

Monday, 04 January 2010

Ponder, if you will, this closing paragraph from SIX PIXELS OF SEPARATION (Mitch Joel).

" Six Pixels of Separation is not about how you connect your business more efficiently in these online channels to be successful. It's too late for that. We are all intrinsically connected. In this world of interconnectedness, the bigger question is, how are you going to spread your story, connect, and add value to your life and the people whose lives you touch? How are you going to explore your network to grow your net worth? How are you going to dd tremendous value to a brand, product, or service that can always be made cheaper and faster by someone else? How are you going to connect and stay connected?"

Thursday, 31 December 2009

Personally and professionally, 2009 was a good year all things being equal. The fog is clearing, if you will, and the playground is taking shape. From a business perspective I'm excited as we move into 2010. In times like these, executing the obvious to survive is passe. The excitement of what is possible gives one the courage to embrace and leverage change. Real change, re-inventing, re-imagining and tossing the status quo.

Dysfunctionalgovernments are what will stymie the global economy. Like many, I too believe what we have in Washington is not what the founding fathers envisioned. Never before have I encountered so many organizations, groups and stakeholders imploring the citizenry to contact their Congressional delegates to voice concern / opposition. Obama was correct by campaigning "yeswe can". However, those inside the Beltway aren't WE, they're THEM.

It's not so much about where we've been as it is where are we going! So as the New Year begins -resolve to stay on the offensive and make a difference!

Wednesday, 30 December 2009

.....that's how long I've been running my own business. The first five years tend to be crucial to a start up. My so called final exam began in 1989 bringing both academic and professional experience to the table. Nine years later, having sold, I moved to Az. and knowing only my wife I invested in another start up. The rest as they say is...........

The similarities in both ventures are striking. Having never operated a business (naivete) before is much like operating a business in today's economy. Once you get by the idea of the economy you realize you're right back where you started. The exception is you tend to be wiser (experience).

Owning a business tends to be 24/7.

The worry is offset by the excitement of it all. These are exciting times!!!!!

As one year draws to a close and we begin anew take comfort in that excitement. Be inspired, embrace change, make a difference.

Perhaps you'll join me and several thousand of my closest friends at EXPO 2010 sponsored by PPAI. The week of January 10th @ The Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas! I'll be looking for you!

Monday, 28 December 2009

...to the house the other night!! For REAL just ask my daughters Olivia and Zoe.

Santa coming to the house has been a tradition in my family since the mid-forties. It strted with my uncle and through the years has been played by me, a cousin, a brother in law whom ever was around to make it believable.

This year my wife was worried that Olivia (9) was catching on to the whole thing. So we got them to sleep and waited for a couple of hours. Then I sprung into action donning my suit, a grand one at that, and lowering the lights I took my place close to the tree. My wife awoke Zoe first who then woke Ollie. Together they walked to the end of the hall way just enough to see the FAT MAN. Excited and shaking with nervous delight they whispered to one another and just as quickly went back to bed. Mind you not to sleep. For the next several hours my wife and I listened as Ollie begged Zoe to arise and let the fun begin. Zoe's final rebuke "be quiet and go to sleep". Finally, at 4 am, it was time to celebrate Christmas.

At first light, with all the gifts opened, I went out to retrieve the newspaper and what did I see. The markings left by Santa's sleigh and his reindeer. There were marks made by the sleighs runners along with hoof prints and oats scattered about. As if the girls would need further confirmation that indeed he had come.

All things being equal, the scene was priceless! The memories will last forever as will the video.